Physics at University of Delaware

Newark, DE · Public · Bachelor's Degree
49 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
51
Optimistic
49
Base Case
47
Pessimistic
Earnings $52,741/yr (13% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Large (77,700 openings/yr)
ROI 8.7x earnings multiple (3.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #42 of 75 Physics programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Physics graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $572K $562K $520K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 8.9x 8.7x 8.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.6x 3.5x 3.3x
Probability of Field Employment 70% 62% 46%
DegreeOutlook Score 51 49 47

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$64,320
Out-of-state: $158,880 (3.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,724
-5% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,572
6.0 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

At $52,741 per year, Physics graduates from University of Delaware earn slightly above the $46,482 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

A 8.7x earnings multiple over ten years puts this program in solid financial territory. Tuition is well-justified by projected earnings.

The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Physics career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $26,572 against $52,741/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #42 ranking among 75 Physics programs places University of Delaware in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About University of Delaware

University of Delaware accepts 65% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, with a mid-sized student body of 18,812 in Newark, DE.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Delaware →

Top Career Paths

Physicists $166,290/yr
Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Physics teachers, postsecondary $97,360/yr
View all 4 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Physics at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 49/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Physics at University of Delaware?
At 49/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Physics programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Physics at University of Delaware?
The 50% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →